Commission approves cyclocross event at nature center after discussion about amplified sound

The Kenosha Parks Commission approved a request from a cycling organization to hold a cyclocross race at the nature center on Sept. 13, 2025, with setup on Sept. 12 and take-down on Sept. 14.

The proposal included food vendors, amplified sound, public entertainment, a bonfire and temporary structures. Multiple supporters spoke during the public hearing, including race organizers and Carl Carlson, a retired Kenosha firefighter who described the event as “a blast” and said it promoted physical and mental health. Organizer remarks said last year’s event drew more than 200 racers and roughly 300 spectators from surrounding states and provinces.

Staff reported that last year’s event was largely successful but that the department had received a few complaints about amplified sound and post-event trail restoration. Staff said organizers proposed pointing speakers away from nearby residences and agreed to revise restoration plans; commissioners discussed the fact that the city ordinance does not allow amplified sound at the nature center. Commissioners asked the applicant to work with their sound vendor on mitigation and to propose a restoration plan. The applicant said they would pursue mitigation options and work with staff.

After discussion the commission moved, seconded and voted to approve the event; the chair voted aye. The record does not specify whether the approval included explicit, written conditions about amplified sound or restoration; commissioners indicated they expect organizers and staff to address those issues before the event.

Event details recorded on the record include a proposed setup time at 6 a.m. on Sept. 12, race hours roughly 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 13, and use of daylight hours only for amplified sound.